Effect of Tetrahydrocurcumin and Gallic Acid on Tail Tendon Collagen Contents and its Properties in Rats with Streptozotocin Induced Diabetes

Background: Elevated blood sugar levels in diabetes result in significant glycation of collagen, which forms cross-links that contribute to tissue stiffness, decreased joint flexibility, and vascular issues. Although the buildup of advanced glycation end products harms tissues, research indicates that certain marine collagen peptides or collagen hydrolysates could enhance insulin sensitivity, decrease blood sugar levels, and mitigate oxidative stress. Materials and Methods: Alterations in the structural and functional characteristics of collagen due to advanced glycation may hold significance for the etiology of late-stage complications associated with diabetes. One of the main reduction metabolites of curcumin, a well-known yellow food pigment from turmeric with potent antibacterial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant qualities, is Tetrahydrocurcumin (THC). Compared to curcumin, THC has comparable pharmacological activities and superior solubility, stability, and bioavailability. Results: Due to its potent antioxidant and skin-whitening properties, the market for colorless THC has grown significantly in recent years for use in functional foods and cosmetics. 3,4,5-trihydroxybenzoic acid, another name for Gallic Acid (GA), is a naturally occurring secondary metabolite that is frequently extracted from a variety of fruits, plants, and nuts. GA’s potent anti-inflammatory qualities have drawn more attention in recent years. As evidenced by increased glycation, collagen-linked fluorescence, neutral salt collagen, and decreased acid and pepsin solubility, diabetic rats had higher hydroxyproline and collagen content as well as a higher degree of cross-linking. Conclusion: Collagen accumulation and cross-linking were considerably decreased in diabetic rats given a combination of THC and GA for 45 days. In conclusion, streptozotocin treated diabetic rats’ collagen content and characteristics improved when THC and GA were administered together. The combination effect of THC and GA was better when compared with that of THC or GA alone.